Solar-powered Seattle home makes eco-friendly look good

When it comes to green energy, this new Seattle home is totally tricked out. Built for the environmentally minded climate advocate (and designer of Microsoft Excel) Jabe Blumenthal, the ultra-insulated abode not only meets passive house standards and sports a blossoming green roof, but its 7 kW solar panels also power much of the home’s energy needs.

That’s no small feat for such a large home, clocking in at some 3,700 square feet. The trick is a highly energy-efficient design with triple-paned windows, mechanical shading, and a fancy air exchange system that harvests heat from exhaust air. The main roof and green roof also deflect heat while collecting some of Seattle’s famous rain water. The home comes complete with an electric-car charger.

Looks-wise, this SHED Architecture project is both modern and warm, featuring a heavy use of wood both inside and out. The facade is entirely covered in vertical slats of rustic timber. Inside, warm-hued built-ins add a dash of vintage flair to the modern space.

Via: Inhabitat